Penn Campus Update: What is Asbestos Abatement?

Asbestos, a type of heat-resistant mineral, was widely used in building materials before the health risks were discovered. The Penn Campus Gym/Social Hall is one of many school structures that was built with asbestos tiles prior to the manufacturing ban in the 1980’s.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has determined that existing asbestos tiles are safe as long as they are undisturbed, so there have been no health concerns to-date. However, when renovation work is performed in the Social Hall/Gym this summer, there could be a potential risk of future exposure. The process of abatement includes safely removing asbestos-containing materials and clearing the area of microscopic fibers.

As the first step to our renovation project, this abatement be done in June by EnviroBate ® professionals certified by the Minnesota Department of Health. Starting June 4, they will fully seal the area and it will not be accessible to anyone else, including school or parish staff. With the seal in place, we can safely continue activities in the rest of the Penn Campus building.

Thank you for your support in ensuring health and safety for us all! If you have any questions about this or other Capital Improvement projects funded by the generous donations of St. Richard parishioners, please contact Fr. Mark Pavlik at 612-869-2426, ext 110.